Global Connect

Applicants must be:

• 18-24 years of age as of April 1, 2023
• Residents of Alberta
• Able to demonstrate current commitment to international cooperation
• Available for the complete duration of the program
• Available for alternative program dates (if necessary)
• Willing to help design and implement public engagement initiatives during and following the program (with support from ACGC staff)

ACGC strives to create an inclusive and welcoming space through this program. ACGC welcomes applicants who bring diverse perspectives to this program and who may be a member of an underrepresented group. Prioritization will be given to newcomer youth with lived experience in a developing country in order to provide deeper discussion on the realities faced by communities in the Global South. (See list of countries here). Should you face barriers to participation, or have concerns about your ability to full participate, please indicate in your application, or direct questions to the contact provided.

The program includes 3 stages:  orientation and teambuilding (virtual); in-person learning tour (12 days in person); and a public engagement project component. 

Travel, food, and accommodation throughout the program will be provided. Accommodation may include a mix of hotel, hostels, and camping where accommodation will be shared with other participants.

Schedule

• Monday May 22nd:  Arrival in Calgary
• Tuesday, May 23nd – 25th: Visit organizations around Calgary
• Friday May 26th – Sunday May 28th: Outing, travel to Edmonton
• Monday May 29 – Wednesday May 31^st: Visit organizations in Edmonton
• Thursday 1 June:  Travel home day

Thanks to funding provided by Global Affairs Canada, this program has no fee, and all travel, accommodation, and food during the program is covered for selected participants. 

Personal expenses such as personal care items, medication, snacks are not covered.  Transport to and from the program drop-off point are are not covered.  For those facing financial barriers, ACGC is committed to working with you to address these costs should they hinder your ability to participate.

ACGC prioritizes the safety and security of our participants, staff, and facilitators. At a minimum, the following risk-mitigation measures are planned to ensure a successful and safe program:

• All applicable Government of Alberta health and safety requirements at the time of the program will be adhered to and enforced.
• ACGC will have available masks, and hand sanitizer for use in the program should it be deemed necessary to ensure the safety of participants at the time of the activity and in line with current health guidelines.
• Should someone fall ill during the program, ACGC will work with the participant to provide appropriate health care

Additional Safety Protocols:

• The program is being designed with the use of outdoor/open-air spaces as much as possible.
• All participants will be required to sign a consent form detailing the final safety protocols in place for this in-person program. 
• ACGC aims to create an organizational environment free from sexual misconduct, harassment and abuse. Participants will be asked to sign a code of conduct outlining expectations to ensure a positive experience for all.

Cancellation or Changes:

ACGC is committed to open communication with participants. ACGC reserves the right to alter or cancel the program in order to ensure compliance with public health and safety measures.

ACGC will not penalize any participant who may wish to withdraw their participation at any time due to health and safety concerns, or other personal reasons. Logistical decisions regarding site visits and any day trips or overnight trips within Alberta will be made by May 1.  Should you have any questions or concerns about the health protocols, please do not hesitate to contact ACGC’s Global Citizenship Education Lead, Wajed El-Halabi, at wajed.el-halabi@acgc.ca.